Integrated Recycling

Premier Mushrooms has taken several steps to reduce the impact its growing and production processes have on the environment. The mushroom growing process itself is naturally a very closed-loop system and complements additional sustainability efforts. Inputs to the composting process are all recycled materials while the outputs are mushrooms, spent compost, and water. The mushrooms are sold and the ones unfit for production are recycled back into the composting process. However, this is not limited to organic wastes.

Recycling is one of the most fundamental practices a business can exercise in order to reduce its environmental footprint. It’s also one of the most visible and cost effective, which makes it a great initiative for fostering a sustainability oriented company culture. Premier has long recycled corrugated cardboard in its warehouse, but the program was limited due to a lack of commercial recycling services in the area. However, there still remained additional materials that could be removed from the waste stream. In order to begin recycling these materials, Premier had to seek out contracts with a 3rd party that could provide a pickup-service. A thorough waste audit revealed what remaining materials could be accepted into the recycling program. These materials included; plastic containers, polyvinyl, white and clear film plastic, plastic strapping, loose cardboard and various others.